A religious group that claims to have a presence in more than 190 countries worldwide is seeking permission to set up a new place of worship in Ayr.
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), The Fountain of Living Water Ayr, has submitted plans for a change of use to a ground floor unit at Luath House, in the town’s New Road.
The group wants to buy the property, then convert the ground floor office space within Luath House and use it as their new place of worship.
Representing the RCCG Fountain of Living Water Ayr in their planning application is Graham and Sibbald Chartered Surveyors and Property Consultants.
The property was put on the market in December 2019, but since then attracted only three viewings.
Ayrshire Live understands that none of the viewings resulted in offers for the property in its current use.
In their application Graham and Sibbald said: “The selling party’s agent has commented that demand for this type of office accommodation is currently low.
“The applicant’s offer for the property is conditional on obtaining a Change of Use for the ground floor for the proposed purpose. This is regarded to currently be the only feasible way for the premises to remain in an active use.”
The agents also go on to say: “The proposals would allow the new owner of the building to operate a church from the bottom floor of the building while continuing to lease out the top floor as an office space to the existing tenant, or a new one.”
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Fountain of Living Water Ayr, currently has a base at Heathfield Community Centre, in West Sanquhar Road, Ayr.
On their web page the group say they have a presence in over 190 countries worldwide and are a Church of God with a “mandate to proclaim the unconditional love of God to mankind” demonstrated in the “redemptive work accomplished through His only begotten Son Jesus Christ.”
The group also states: “We aim to get and grow people in relationship (with) Jesus Christ, to live a joyful and purposeful lives in the hope of eternal glory with God.”
The application is currently listed as ‘pending consideration’ on South Ayrshire Council’s online planning portal.
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
